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Garlic Herb Chicken with Lemon Orzo

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  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking, Searing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A flavorful and healthy dish featuring tender garlic herb chicken paired with zesty lemon orzo. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for orzo)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
  3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. While the chicken bakes, cook the orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  6. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping any brown bits from the skillet to incorporate the flavor.
  7. Stir in the cooked orzo and mix until fully combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. Serve the chicken on top of the lemon orzo and garnish with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Ensure the chicken is cooked to the right internal temperature to avoid dryness.
  • If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the chicken to a baking dish after searing.
  • For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken for an hour or overnight with the garlic and herbs.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with orzo
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg